Guinea pigs, also known as cavies, are small rodents native to South America. They belong to the family Caviidae and are not actually pigs despite their name!

Guinea pigs have a robust, stocky body with short legs, and typically weigh between 700 to 1,200 grams. They are herbivores with a diet consisting primarily of hay, vegetables, and specially formulated pellets. Guinea pigs are social animals that thrive in groups and have a range of vocalisations to communicate with each other.

Historically, guinea pigs were domesticated by indigenous peoples of the Andes for food, religious ceremonies, and as pets. They were first introduced to Europe in the 16th century by Spanish explorers and quickly became popular as exotic pets. Over time, guinea pigs have been bred in captivity, resulting in a variety of breeds with different coat types and colours. Today, they are commonly kept as pets worldwide and are (in our opinion), the best animals in the world due to their quirky personalities and cuddly nature!